Dasun Shanaka to Replace Sam Curran at Rajasthan Royals for IPL 2026

The Rajasthan Royals have secured a massive boost by signing Sri Lankan powerhouse Dasun Shanaka as a replacement for the injured Sam Curran. Shanaka, who has withdrawn from his PSL stint with Lahore Qalandars, brings elite form following a stellar T20 World Cup campaign. With his explosive batting and handy medium pace, he is set to debut for the Royals in their March 30 opener against CSK in Guwahati.

Rajasthan Royals Sign Dasun Shanaka as Replacement for Injured Sam Curran

The Rajasthan Royals have made a strong move ahead of IPL 2026 by signing Dasun Shanaka as a replacement for Sam Curran, who has been ruled out due to a groin injury.

This late change comes just days before the tournament begins and has quickly become a major talking point. Shanaka, a key player for Sri Lanka, has decided to leave his stint with Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League to join an IPL franchise. He is expected to join the squad in Guwahati soon.

Filling the Gap Left by Sam Curran

Curran’s absence is a significant setback for the Royals. He was an important part of their squad following a major pre-auction trade that involved Sanju Samson moving to Chennai Super Kings, while RR strengthened their team with Ravindra Jadeja and Curran.

• To replace a player of Curran’s caliber, the team needed someone with similar all-round abilities. Dasun Shanaka fits that role well.
• Strong batting form: He recently delivered an impressive unbeaten 76 off 31 balls in the T20 World Cup.
• Useful bowling option: His medium pace, especially in the final overs, adds balance to the team.
• Leadership experience: As Sri Lanka’s T20 captain, he brings valuable tactical insight to the squad.

Familiar Setup Under Sangakkara

Shanaka is likely to settle into the team environment quickly. Head coach Kumar Sangakkara has worked closely with him and understands his strengths well. Additionally, assistant coach Vikram Rathour is also familiar with Shanaka’s recent performances.

This strong connection within the coaching group should help Shanaka adapt without much difficulty.

Shift from PSL to IPL

Shanaka’s move also reflects a growing trend of players switching leagues. Recently, Blessing Muzarabani made a similar move to join the Kolkata Knight Riders.

While this has sparked discussions among leagues, for Rajasthan Royals, it is a smart and timely addition—especially given that Shanaka was unsold in the IPL mini-auction.

When Will Shanaka Play?

Rajasthan Royals will begin their IPL 2026 campaign on March 30 against Chennai Super Kings at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati.

With Shanaka now in the squad, fans will be eager to see how he performs and whether he can help the Royals push for another IPL title.

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